American Horror Story Season 3: Kathy Bates Joins Cast as Jessica Lange’s Nemesis

American Horror Story has proven to be a real winner for FX. The show earned impressive numbers throughout season 2, subtitled Asylum, and was quickly renewed for season 3. Concrete details regarding the upcoming storyline have remained scarce, but co-creator Ryan Murphy (of Nip/Tuck and Glee fame) has since offered a few hints regarding what fans can expect.

Thus far, the series has included all manner of supernatural madness, including demons, mutants, aliens and ghosts. Murphy himself has said that the season will feature an “evil glamour” of sorts, and rumor has it that witches will be a central part of the plot. While the inclusion of magic is still unconfirmed, the latest addition to the show’s cast is sure to raise expectations.

According to TV Line, Oscar winner Kathy Bates is poised to join American Horror Story season 3 as the arch-enemy (and former best friend) of Jessica Lange’s new character. The season is expected to be more historical than previous rounds – though it will jump through a few different time periods – and will feature a somewhat lighter tone than the bleak Asylum.

Bates most recently headlined Harry’s Law for NBC, but she is no stranger to the world of horror. The actress famously walked away with Oscar gold for her chilling portrayal of obsessed fan Annie Wilkes in the 1990 film adaptation of Stephen King’s Misery. So the thought of her joining the eerie world of American Horror Story is a terrific fit and gives her a chance to exercise those chill-inducing acting skills once more. Plus, the very idea of Lange and Bates facing off (potentially as witches) can only help to bring in viewers at this point.

In addition to Lange, the upcoming season of American Horror Story will feature returning cast members Taissa Farmiga, Frances Conroy, Sarah Paulson, Lily Rabe and Evan Peters.

Do you think Bates will prove a worthy adversary for Lange and a smart addition to the cast? Let us know in the comments.